Comparing the outcome of fixation of supracondylar femur fractures using retrograde intramedullary nailing and distal femur locking compression plate

Background: Supracondylar femur fractures typically occur as a result high energy trauma in young and in elderly after low energy trauma. Retrograde intramedullary nailing (RIMN) and distal femur locking compression plate (DFLCP) are widely used for fixation distal femur fractures. This study was done to compare the clinicoradiological outcome of fixation of supracondylar femur fractures using RIMN and DFLCP. Methods: In our study with 26 patients fulfilling the criteria were enrolled and one group treated with RIMN while the other group treated with DFLCP and corresponding Functional and radiological assessment done on basis of Neer’s score. Results: Fractures occurred primarily as a result of RTA in young and self-fall in elderly. Fracture type AO33-A1 was seen more commonly in both groups. The mean duration of surgery, blood loss and bone union time in the RIMN group minutes was less than that the DFLCP group. All fractures in the RIMN group united while three cases of non-union in DFLCP group, with one case of delayed union, one case of periprosthetic implant fracture, and one case of knee joint arthrosis. Local soft tissue complications were more common among DFLCP group. Functional and radiological assessment on basis of Neer’s score was found to be better in RIMN group than the DFLCP group. Conclusions: RIMN is a better option in the operative treatment of supracondylar femur fractures found to be correct in terms of less soft tissue complications, shorter duration of surgery, less intraoperative blood loss, shorter duration of hospital stays, and fracture union.